Lounge

Lounge is a style of Easy Listening that emerged in the USA during the 1950s. It emphasizes a tranquil, 'chilled-out' atmosphere with light arrangements and instrumentation derived from forms of Jazz and Traditional Pop. Other sources of inspiration include background incidental music, Light Music, Swing and Hispanic American Music, on top of the general practice of covers and instrumental versions. Developing in parallel with other easy listening styles Exotica and Space Age Pop, lounge emphasized a comparatively less zany or adventurous sound, with less reliance on eclectic arrangements and Sound Effects. Common instruments and musical features include ice cold piano (akin to Cool Jazz), vibraphones, xylophone, Hammond organ and mild percussion, on top of the usage of light Big Band idioms and orchestration. If vocals are employed, the 'lounge singer' often performs in a Vocal Jazz-esque 'crooner' style or a set of 'backing' vocals act as the lead voice.